TRANSGENDER DAY OF REMEMBRANCE

• Posted by Julie Hawkwood November 20, 2011 #  1,736 views
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  I was deeply privileged to attend today’s vigil in Manchester and read out some of the names of transpeople who have been murdered for nothing more than being who they are.

   

  The names of 650 people were read out. This is only a few percent of the transdead. Many dead are not reported as being killed for being trans, many in some parts of the world are not identified or reported. Some are even killed by state encouragement. And this is only a small percentage of those who have taken their own life, sometimes reported as 50% of transsexuals.

   

  I was deeply moved to attend this event and I was deeply humbled to stand amongst amazing transpeople. People talk about bravery, about triumph over adversity. I am in awe of what many transpeople have been through and have conquered. Their bravery, spirit and tenacity are truly inspiring.

   

  I left a bunch of yellow roses from us all at Trantastic at the Beacon of Hope in Manchester’s Sackville Street Park and a yellow candle burning in a golden glass covered with sequins.

   

  After the event, we all adjourned to a nearby pub where I had a couple of pints in the delightful company of a bunch of FtM translads. An awesome, amazing, moving event.

   

  P.S. This is my last post at Transtastic. I will still be out there, always. I have loved your company and will always cherish your friendship. But I too must take a stand. I have been threatened, today of all days, by someone here in what they call their 'nasty male mode'. I will not and cannot support or endorse such behaviour in a forum which I care so much for xxx